BRADY HENDERSON

Moos: Review shows no abuse in football program

Dec 12, 2012, 4:19 PM | Updated: Dec 13, 2012, 11:39 am

By Brady Henderson

Washington State athletic director Bill Moos says his review of the university’s football program revealed “no report or detection of abuse or inappropriate behavior.”

Moos was told last month by WSU president Elson Floyd to conduct a review of the program after former Cougars wide receiver Marquess Wilson alleged that players were the target of “physical, emotional and verbal abuse” by Mike Leach’s coaching staff.

In a report released Wednesday by the university, Moos says Wilson recanted those allegations in a text message he sent Moos following a Nov. 10 game against UCLA. Wilson, the school’s all-time leading receiver, made the allegations and announced he was leaving the team via a statement that was released before that game.

Moos was asked to conduct a review the following week.

Two members of his staff interviewed 12 players, and according to the report, all of them felt they were having a positive experience at Washington State.

From the report: “The players said they believe in the coaches and that they will take the program to a higher level. They said the coaches are tough but fair and that they care about them as human beings. They went on to say the coaching staff has boosted the confidence of the team and that all players are treated equally regardless of role.”

According to the report, most of the 12 players said they felt Wilson “let the team down and put them, their coach and WSU in a bad light.”

The review also sought input from others in the athletic department who work directly with the football program.

“Once I received the findings from members of my staff, I found that the program is moving in the desired direction, that it is on-par with, or exceeds, other BSC-level programs in terms of expectations and commitment,” Moos wrote in a statement. “Transition in coaching changes is rarely smooth, however, after reviewing the comments from the players that were interviewed, I am encouraged the program is moving in a positive direction.”

The university’s press release included a statement from Floyd saying he will “thoroughly evaluate” Moos’ report as well as the report he requested from the Pac-12, which he is expecting to receive soon.

Brady Henderson

Rees Odhiambo, a 2016 third-round pick, will compete with Matt Tobin to start at left tackle. (AP)...

Brady Henderson

Tom Cable: Rees Odhiambo, Matt Tobin are Seahawks’ preferred LT options

Tom Cable brought a bit of clarity to the Seahawks' plans at left tackle in the wake of George Fant's season-ending knee injury, saying Tuesday that Rees Odhiambo and newcomer Matt Tobin are the top two options.

7 years ago

Left tackle George Fant suffered an injury in the first half of Friday's preseason game. (AP)...

Brady Henderson

Seahawks injury updates: George Fant set for surgery, K.J. Wright returns

Seahawks coach Pete Carroll said Monday that left tackle George Fant is expected to be back by next season from the knee injury that will sideline him in 2017.

7 years ago

Matt Tobin, 27, started 21 games over seasons with the Eagles. (AP)...

Brady Henderson

Seahawks acquire OL Matt Tobin in trade with Eagles

The Seahawks have acquired offensive tackle Matt Tobin in a trade with the Eagles, making another move to shore up their offensive line after losing left tackle George Fant for the season.

7 years ago

Luke Joeckel played left tackle for his first three NFL seasons. (AP)...

Brady Henderson

Luke Joeckel? Rees Odhiambo? A look at the Seahawks’ LT options with George Fant out for the season

The Seahawks need a new plan at left tackle with George Fant out for the season. Moving Luke Joeckel there is one option, writes Brady Henderson.

7 years ago

Michael Bennett on Justin Britt standing by his side during the national anthem Friday night: “I ...

Brady Henderson

Justin Britt stands by Michael Bennett during national anthem: ‘A very emotional moment’

Seahawks center Justin Britt showed his support for teammate Michael Bennett Friday night, standing by him as Bennett remained seated during the national anthem.

7 years ago

Left tackle George Fant suffered an injury in the first half of Friday's preseason game. (AP)...

Brady Henderson

Seahawks’ George Fant needs ACL surgery, likely out for season

The Seahawks' offensive line was dealt a massive blow with left tackle George Fant suffering a knee injury Friday night that will likely keep him out all season.

7 years ago

Moos: Review shows no abuse in football program